Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

A few days ago one of the Upper Burnett heroes, Private James Harley, returned from the front. 

While in France some months ago he sustained shell-shock, and was sent to England, and after some time in hospital was sent home. 

Upon arrival he was to all appearances in fairly good health, but had lost his speech. 

He proceeded to Mt. Perry on a visit to his mother at Mingo Crossing, and also visited his brother, Mr. T. Harley at Cordalba, afterwards proceeded back to Brisbane for medical examination and to arrange his affairs with the Defence Authorities. 

Whilst walking along the street he accidentally, bumped against a lady.

His inborn courtesy was responsible for his immediately apologising.

The sound of his voice gave him a great shock. 

At first he could not believe that he had spoken, but to his delight and surprise he discovered that his voice had returned to him.

He passed through town again on Tuesday on another visit to his mother, who, unfortunately, has met with a painful accident and friends he met in town were pleased to find that he could converse fairly well, and it is to be hoped that his voice has been permanently restored.

Source Trove: Bundaberg Mail (Qld), Thurs  2 May 1918, p. 4